Unmanned aerial vehicles have begun operations in the Republic of Sakha (Yakutia) as part of a coordinated effort to identify and assess forest fire activity linked to the BAS incident, according to DEA News referencing the State Transport Leasing Company (STLC).
Officials report that the first drone operator, with state participation for BA, started flying over Yakutia. The drones are tasked with rapid detection of potential fire outbreaks, a crucial capability as authorities declared a regional state of emergency early this week. The move marks a new phase in the region’s use of autonomous aviation to support emergency response and environmental surveillance.
The development firm noted that these flights occurred outside the experimental legal regime governing new drone operations in Russia, signifying a milestone in the deployment of BAS unmanned systems. STLC stated that if the initial trials prove successful, BASUAVs could expand their role beyond fire surveillance to include monitoring muskox and reindeer populations and supporting fisheries management. This broader scope aligns with regional efforts to safeguard biodiversity while enhancing resource management and public safety.
Earlier reporting indicated that the total forest fire area in the Olekminsky district had grown to around 1,400 hectares, underscoring the urgency of improving detection and response times through aerial surveillance. What began as a localized incident has compelled authorities to explore innovative tools and cross-sector applications to better protect ecosystems and communities alike. (Source attribution: DEA News)
Local authorities emphasize that the deployment represents a collaborative step among government agencies, the STLC, and research partners. Operators are leveraging real-time data streams to map fire perimeters, assess terrain challenges, and coordinate ground response more effectively. The initiative also aims to build a longer-term capability for rapid situational awareness as weather patterns and fire behavior continue to evolve in the region. (Source attribution: DEA News)
As the program progresses, officials are evaluating how autonomous flight operations can integrate with traditional firefighting methods, emergency management protocols, and wildlife monitoring activities. The emphasis remains on safety, reliability, and minimal ecological disturbance while expanding the use of aerial assets to protect lives, livelihoods, and natural resources in Yakutia and neighboring regions. (Source attribution: DEA News)